Apple Cider Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe
This Apple Cider Glazed Turkey Breast recipe offers a deliciously moist and flavorful main dish perfect for any occasion. The turkey breast is seared to golden perfection, then roasted with a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze infused with brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and warming spices. Basting the turkey throughout roasting ensures a beautifully caramelized finish and tender meat that pairs wonderfully with fall-inspired sides.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Turkey
- 3–4 lbs turkey breast
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 tbsp butter, divided
Glaze
- 2 cups apple cider, divided
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Optional: cloves (not specified quantity)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Turkey: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the turkey breast dry thoroughly with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Sear the Turkey: In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Sear the turkey breast on all sides until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust, which locks in juices.
- Start Roasting: Transfer the seared turkey breast to a roasting pan. Pour 1 cup of apple cider around the turkey to keep it moist during roasting.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a saucepan, combine the remaining 1 cup of apple cider with brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, cinnamon, and optional cloves. Simmer this mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a glaze consistency.
- Glaze and Roast: Brush the prepared glaze evenly over the turkey breast. Roast in the oven, basting the turkey with more glaze every 15 minutes to build layers of flavor and moisture, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on breast size.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the turkey from the oven and allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period helps redistribute juices for a tender and juicy final product before carving and serving.
Notes
- Ensure the turkey breast is fully thawed before cooking to promote even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to accurately check the internal temperature to avoid over or undercooking.
- Basting frequently helps achieve a glossy, flavorful crust but avoid opening the oven too often to maintain temperature.
- The glaze can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; warm before brushing for easier application.
- Optional cloves add a warm spice note, adjust amount to taste.
Keywords: turkey breast, apple cider glaze, roasted turkey, fall recipes, holiday main dish